When was Vetas founded?
Colombia, south-america
21.8 km
3,350 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, buckle up, adventure awaits! We're headed to Vetas, Colombia, rumored to be the highest town in the whole country, perched way up at 3,350 meters (that's nearly 11,000 feet!). Founded way back in 1551 amidst a major mining zone, getting here is half the fun.
Forget smooth asphalt, this is an unpaved, 21.8 km (13.54 miles) rumble starting from Berlin on the Bucaramanga-Pamplona road (66). A 4x4 isn't just recommended; it's practically essential! The climb is seriously intense, the air gets thin, and the gravel can be super loose, especially near the edges.
Trust me, this isn't a Sunday drive. This remote route climbs thousands of feet through seriously isolated landscapes, often shrouded in mist. Make sure you're prepped for a real adventure because the views? Totally worth it.
Road Details
- Country
- Colombia
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 21.8 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,350 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in south-america
extremeAbra del Calvario
🇦🇷 Argentina
Okay, buckle up for Abra del Calvario in Jujuy, Argentina! This mountain pass is a beast, topping out at a staggering 4,423 meters (14,511 feet). You'll find it along Ruta Nacional 40, and fair warning, it's a gravel and sand road. The good news is that it's usually maintained well enough that a 2WD with decent clearance can handle it, as long as you take it slow and steady. But listen up: altitude is a *serious* factor here. The air is thin, *really* thin. If you've got any respiratory or heart issues, maybe skip this one. Even if you're in great shape, be prepared to feel the altitude. We're talking about 40% less oxygen than you're used to! Your heart will be pounding, and even simple movements will feel like a workout. Between the elevation, unpredictable weather, steep grades, and remote location, this pass is no joke. But if you're prepared for a challenge and want some seriously epic views, Abra del Calvario might just be your next unforgettable adventure. Just be sure to listen to your body and take it easy!
moderateAn exciting drive to the top of Abra Malaga Pass
🇵🇪 Peru
Alright, adventure junkies, buckle up for Abra Malaga, a sky-high pass in Peru's Cusco Region that'll steal your breath (literally, it's at 14,248 feet!). We're talking Ruta 28B, a 75-mile ribbon of asphalt stretching from Ollantaytambo to Santa Maria. This isn't just any drive; it's a visual feast. Picture this: leaving the charming Inca town of Ollantaytambo behind, the road begins its ascent, twisting and turning through hairpin after glorious hairpin, each revealing a more jaw-dropping panorama of the Sacred Valley. But hold on tight, because the eastern descent plunges you into a mystical "neblina" zone – think rugged terrain, ethereal mist, and windswept grasslands. Now, a word of caution: those stunning Andean peaks can be fickle. Autumn and winter bring snow, often shutting down the road completely, and icy conditions make it a slippery gamble. So, plan accordingly! With over a hundred hairpin turns and some seriously steep sections, it’s not for the faint of heart, but the dramatic landscapes? Totally worth it. This drive is a pure shot of Peruvian beauty straight to the soul.
moderateWhere is Abra Chaucha?
🇵🇪 Peru
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the Peruvian Andes, right on the border of Junín and Lima regions, smack-dab in the middle of the country's highlands. You're heading towards Abra Chaucha, a seriously high mountain pass. The road? Well, it's paved...sort of. Let's just say you'll want to give your suspension a pep talk before you start! We're talking some potholes that could swallow a small car whole. Seriously, think twice about driving this at night. This pass is a piece of a much longer east-west route, linking Cerro de Pasco (the capital of Pasco) to Lima. Along the way, you'll cross several other high mountain passes, so buckle up for some seriously stunning highland scenery. It's an epic drive, full of drama and views that will make your jaw drop.
moderateHow to Travel the World as a Vegan Adventure Seeker
🇵🇪 Peru
Alright, adventure-seeking vegans! Planning a globetrotting trip doesn't mean ditching your principles or missing out on the fun. It just takes a little planning, prep, and a dash of creativity. First things first: pick your destinations wisely! Think about it – how easy is it to find vegan grub in the local markets and restaurants? What are the vibes around veganism and animal rights in the area? You want to go somewhere where you can actually enjoy the food and not feel like a total outsider. Peru, for example, is a total vegan win! The culture is vibrant, the history is rich, and the landscapes are breathtaking. Plus, you can chow down on amazing vegan-friendly Peruvian eats like quinoa, corn, potatoes, beans, and all kinds of fruits. Feeling adventurous? Trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu! You can find tours that cater to vegans, complete with a vegan chef and porters to keep you fueled up for the 4-day hike. Finding a place to crash that vibes with your vegan lifestyle is also key. Whether you're into fancy hotels, cozy B&Bs, or roughing it at a campground, do your homework. Don't be shy about reaching out to the hosts and asking about their vegan options. You might be surprised at how accommodating they are! Pre-ordering meals or snacks is also a pro move. And of course, ethical animal encounters are a must. You want to see animals in their natural habitats, but you also want to make sure you're doing it responsibly. Look for opportunities to observe wildlife without invasive methods and support conservation efforts. Plenty of organizations out there vet ethical sanctuaries and wildlife experiences, so do your research! Traveling the world as a vegan adventurer is totally doable, rewarding, and just plain awesome. You get to experience new cultures, eat incredible food, see amazing landscapes, and stick to your values all at the same time. Plus, you're supporting ethical businesses and inspiring others to do the same. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore!